U18s forward Patrick Casey expressed his pride after featuring in the Addicks' first team squad for the trip to Colchester United earlier this month.
Following the U18s' incredible 8-1 victory over Liverpool in the Premier League Cup, the 16-year-old reflected on a successful week for himself and his teammates.
“We are absolutely buzzing, we're over the moon," beamed Casey. "It was a great performance from the boys and a great result. Our hard work is paying off."
While being thrilled to travel with Ben Garner's squad for the Papa John's Trophy tie in Essex, Casey was quick to admit that he still has a long way to go in his footballing journey.
“I'm over the moon, it's been my dream since I was a little boy. There's still a lot more for me to achieve and a lot more for me to show to the managers," he explained.
U18 Lead Coach Danny Senda believes Casey's achievement will inspire his teammates, who he has challenged to do likewise.
“I'm proud of all of my players," Senda said. "I put a message into the group to firstly acknowledge Pat's achievement of getting into the first team squad at such a young age, but also to make him and the others understand that it's not an individual sport. It's a team sport and collectively we've been able to give Pat the opportunity to demonstrate what he's good at.
"It's a special moment for everyone in the group," he added. "It's a challenge we put down and I've said to them, ‘who is going to be the next one to get through?’ Sometimes you can jump the U21s and go straight to the first team. It's an exceptional group that we have and there are a number of other individuals who can follow in Pat’s footsteps."
Senda's side host Watford this Saturday seeking a sixth win in as many games. The young Addicks currently sit second in the Professional Development League table, three points off the summit with a game in hand.
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(Article by Alex Forrest)